BACKING LOCAL BUSINESSES

Having worked for fifteen years as an entrepreneur before coming to Parliament, I passionately believe in the potential of Norfolk’s rural economy to play a significant role in helping to rebalance the national economy and create prosperity and opportunities across our area.

That’s why I have launched my Local Business Spotlight, Small Business Manifesto, the first ever Norfolk Innovation Awards and Norfolk Way Project to make sure all entrepreneurs and local businesses in our area get the finance and help they need. Through my Norfolk Way Project and Rural Enterprise Bursaries, young people across our area are also getting the opportunities and work experience they need to become the entrepreneurs of the future.

Too often rural businesses suffer from isolation and struggle to access the finance and support they need. Many of the market towns and high streets in Mid Norfolk face real challenges as the older local manufacturing businesses and jobs leave, while villages suffer from closing Post Offices and pubs.

Over the next five years, I will continue working with local councillors and businesses to promote our area as a home of enterprise, and doing everything I can to support the entrepreneurs and small businesses that are the engine of our local economy.

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